Route 66 by Motorcycle｜An Encounter with America's Original Landscape

The History and Attraction of Route 66

Route 66 is an iconic roadway of American history and culture that is beloved by many travelers. The road opened in 1926 and connected Chicago to Los Angeles, a distance of approximately 2,400 miles (3,860 kilometers). In its early years, it served as a major thoroughfare in the United States, and many people traveled this road to the West.

Route 66 is also known as the "Mother Road," and its name has given rise to many stories and legends. It is said that many families used this road to head west in search of a new life, especially during the Great Depression of the 1930s. During this period, the road was also an important setting in the novel "The Grapes of Wrath" by John Steinbeck.

In the 1950s and 1960s, as the automobile culture developed, numerous motels, diners, and gas stations sprang up along Route 66. They still retain much of the atmosphere of those days, creating a nostalgic experience for many travelers.

Today, only a small section remains, but it is being preserved as "Historic Route 66. And touring this road by motorcycle is a special adventure for many riders. While crossing the vast American continent, you will discover new things about its history, landscapes, and encounters with its people.

In addition, each state offers its own unique landscape and culture. For example, in New Mexico, you can see reddish deserts and Native American culture, and in Arizona, the Grand Canyon and other spectacular natural beauty. Traveling in this way will also deepen your understanding of the entire country of the United States, which has different faces one by one.

As you can see from the above, Route 66, the "Mother Road," is more than just a means of transportation; it has a rich history and charm behind it. The drive itself will be an unforgettable experience.

Touring the Land of America by Motorcycle

Touring the land of America by motorcycle is a truly adventurous experience. In particular, Route 66 is the perfect setting to experience America's natural wonders and history firsthand. Riding a motorcycle on this legendary highway allows you to enjoy the scenery from a different perspective than by car.

First of all, Route 66 stretches approximately 3,940 kilometers from Chicago to Los Angeles, and its diverse terrain and scenery are fascinating. The road offers a succession of spectacular landscapes woven by nature, including vast plains, red rock mountains, and desert areas. The openness that only a motorcycle can provide allows you to experience these varied landscapes with your entire body.

In addition, motorcycle travelers can feel the wind, smells, and even the unique atmosphere of a place, which allows them to experience a deeper sense of oneness with that place. For example, you can enjoy the heat of the dry desert in Arizona or the fresh green forests of Missouri.

In addition, stopping in small towns is a unique feature of motorcycle travel. You can easily stop at small stores and cafes that you would pass by in a car. These places offer new discoveries in the form of local souvenirs and homemade food.

Preparation is also important in order to fully enjoy this grand adventure while also taking safety into consideration. By checking the weather reports and making sure you are appropriately dressed and equipped, you will be safe and comfortable on your journey. Also, be sure to take regular breaks.

In this way, the land of the United States, explored by motorcycle, will provide unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime. This journey, which goes at your own unique pace while encountering the charm of each region, each with its own distinct look and feel, is sure to give many people new perspectives and impressions.

Recommended Stopping Places

A motorcycle ride along Route 66 is a wonderful adventure that allows you to experience the spectacular scenery and history of the United States. There are many fascinating places to stop along the way. Here are some of the best places to stop along the way.

The first place to visit is the starting point of Route 66 in Chicago, Illinois. Here you can take a photo along with the "Route 66 Begin" sign. This location has become an iconic point where many riders begin their journey.

The next best place to visit is the Gateway Arch near St. Louis, Missouri. This gigantic arch is known as the gateway to the western frontier, and its grandeur is overwhelming. There is also an observation deck inside the arch that offers a panoramic view of the city and the Mississippi River.

In Oklahoma, the Round Barn Trading Post, located in Caddo County, is not to be missed. Here you can purchase good old American goods and antiques, and feel as if you have stepped back in time. The area is also surrounded by beautiful nature, making it a great place to take a short break.

Near Albuquerque, New Mexico, a visit to the Petroglyphs National Monument is recommended. Here you can see some 24,000 rock paintings made by indigenous peoples, and you will be struck by their historical value and mystique.

Last but not least is Santa Monica, California. The end of Route 66, Santa Monica is famous for its beautiful beaches and bustling piers. The best way to end the trip is to take a picture in front of the "Route 66 End" sign and watch the sun set over the ocean.

By visiting these spots, you will not only be on the road, but you will also be exposed to diverse cultures and histories. We hope that each of these stops, with their different attractions, will help you create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Tips for a safe and enjoyable trip

When traveling Route 66 by motorcycle, it is important to be prepared and ready to enjoy the ride safely. First, make sure your motorcycle is well maintained before departure. In addition to checking tire pressure, brakes, oil, etc., it is a good idea to have spare parts and tools ready.

Second, because Route 66 is a long distance, planned breaks are essential. Avoid an unreasonable schedule and take moderate breaks to avoid fatigue. Also, be sure to stay hydrated. Be careful not to run out of water, especially during the summer months when temperatures are often high.

There are also some points to keep in mind regarding safe driving. Route 66 includes many suburban and rural roads, so be aware of animal jumps and road conditions in such areas. It is also important to drive moderately on unfamiliar roads and to check for safety.

In addition, the impact of weather conditions should also be taken into consideration. Check the weather forecast in advance and consider changing your plans in case of heavy rain, storms, or other bad weather. It is also a good idea to bring rain gear.

Last but not least, be sure to purchase insurance in case of any problems. Also, be aware of traffic rules that are different from those in Japan, and enjoy your trip with safety first. With such preparation and care, your motorcycle trip on Route 66 will be safer and more fulfilling.

Local gourmet and cultural experiences

A trip along Route 66 offers local culinary and cultural experiences. The ability to experience the original landscape of the United States and to experience the unique culinary culture of each region is a major attraction of this trip.

First, be sure to try Chicago pizza on Route 66, which begins in Chicago, Illinois. With its thick crust and generous amounts of cheese and tomato sauce, you will be amazed at the volume of the pizza once you take a bite. Chicago is also famous for its hot dogs. The style of sausage sandwiched in a poppy seed bun and served with a variety of toppings is well worth a try.

In St. Louis, Missouri, you can enjoy authentic barbecue. Juicy ribs and pulled pork with special sauce are popular here. St. Louis-style pizza is also unique, with its thin, crispy dough.

Once in Oklahoma, the chicken fried steak is a must. This is a dish of fried beefsteak, and its crispiness and juiciness are exquisite. And in Texas, you can also enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine. Tacos, enchiladas, and a wide variety of other menu items are available for you to choose from.

Albuquerque, New Mexico is famous for its "Green Chile Burger. The burger, made with the region's specialty green chile, has an unforgettable taste. Native American culture is also deeply rooted in the area, and its traditional crafts and dances can be seen.

The final destination, Los Angeles, California, offers an international cuisine. The rich diversity of food cultures, especially Korean and Chinese, makes it worth a visit as a new taste experience.

As you can see, a trip along Route 66 is more than just a means of transportation; it is enhanced by the diverse culinary and cultural experiences you will encounter along the way. We hope you will enjoy the delicious cuisine and unique cultural encounters that each region has to offer.

Seasonal Highlights and Climate Information

The U.S. Route 66 has a different charm in each season, allowing visitors to enjoy a variety of landscapes and experiences depending on the time of year they visit. Spring is the season when the grass and trees begin to sprout, allowing visitors to drive through the beauty of fresh greenery. The mild and pleasant temperatures are also ideal for outdoor activities.

Although the temperatures rise in the summer, many events and festivals are held during this time of the year to attract tourists. Especially in Arizona and New Mexico, you will be able to enjoy the magnificent scenery of the vast desert areas. Be careful of the heat during the day, however, and remember to stay hydrated.

Fall is known as the foliage season, and beautiful fall foliage can be seen in many places. Especially in the area from Illinois to Missouri, Route 66 is a spectacular sight as you drive through the colorful trees. The weather is cool and comfortable at this time of year, making it the perfect time for sightseeing.

In winter, it is possible to see snowy scenery in some areas, but one must be careful about road conditions in the highlands and mountainous areas. Still, visitors can enjoy the quiet atmosphere unique to winter, and it is recommended for those who wish to avoid the crowds. In addition, many seasonal events, such as Christmas illuminations, are held around major cities.

Route 66 thus has a different look throughout the year, and you can make your trip even more fulfilling by tailoring your itinerary to the season of your choice.